Increase your support when you purchase one or more Majestic Boxes!

Each Majestic Box you purchase contains a stunning 13-14mm freshwater brown coin pearl pendant on an 18 inch silver chain valued at $100.

Enjoy a 4-course dinner with wine pairings at Cedar's Steaks & Oysters

Valued at $200 / per person

Reserve your seat on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 7 p.m. Bring a few friends, and plan to meet new ones - all supporters of Hope in Focus.

We're discounting seats to just $150 per person if you buy your seat now, as part of our Dinner in the Dark auction.

This buy-now experience includes:

A delectable four-course meal with wine pairings in a private room at Cedar's Steaks & Oysters.

What's on the menu?

Lump Crab Cake

Pickled Fennel Slaw | Mustard Remoulade

Caprese Salad

Whipped Mozzarella |Heirloom Tomatoes | Charred Onion Jam | Arugula Pesto

Surf and Turf

Petite Filet | Diver Scallop | Potato Puree | Asparagus | Bearnaise

Chocolate Chambord

Cocoa Nib Brownie | Raspberry Compote | Bitter Chocolate Ganache

Only 20 seats are available. Rain date on March 6th.

Cake is served at the winner's table

Valued at $50

Skip the dessert station and show your support for rare diseases when you win this philanthropic prize for your table. Hope in Focus volunteer Beth Borysewicz has been a key force in all of our fundraising events, conferences, and advocacy work since 2013. Tonight, she is donating a cake she paid $50 for, and she is counting on one of our lucky philanthropic guests to make it a $1,000 cake.

Image shown is not the actual cake (but it'll be just as delicious!)

Donated by Beth Borysewicz

Hope in Focus Board Vice-chair

"The mountains are calling, and I must go." - John Muir

7 nights for up to six guests in New Hampshire's White Mountains

Valued at $1,500

Start your next getaway at this cozy, streamside condo in the heart of the White Mountains. This escape is central to four-season adventures in New Hampshire, including the nearby mountain resorts of Waterville Valley, Loon Mountain, Tenney Mountain, and Cannon Mountain. Perfect for a quiet getaway, family fun, skiing, golfing, hiking, and more, for up to six guests.

This package includes:

• Cozy New Hampshire condo with two bedrooms, each with one Queen bed, and a loft with two twin beds
• Two full bathrooms
• Fully equipped with a gas fireplace, washer/dryer, cable, high-speed internet, and threeTVs.
• An optional guided hike upon request and subject to availability.

Details: No pets. Available on most holidays. Must be booked in advance with the homeowner. Subject to availability. Expires Dec. 15, 2026.

Drink Like A Royal!

Valued at $1,500+

Our dear friend and former Hope in Focus Board Director, Mike Mondello, has selected these special wines from his personal collection to share in tonight's auction:

This package includes:

• 1998 Penfolds Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon: One of the most powerful vintages of the '90s, this wine delivers rich fruit, ripe tannins, and a finish that doesn't quit. World of Fine Wine called it "extraordinary." Valued at $422
• 2021 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia Bolgheri: Critics agree that the 2021 Sassicaia is nearly perfect. With a rare 100-point score and soaring demand, it's one of the most collectible Super Tuscans of the decade. Valued at $311
• 2016 Elio Grasso Runcot: This wine received a perfect 100-point score from Antonio Galloni of Vinous, who called it "quite possibly the single greatest wine I have tasted in more than twenty years I have been coming here." Valued at $261
• 2022 Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon: Mentored by legendary winemaker André Tchelistcheff, Quilceda Creek's Cabernet has rivaled icons like Chateau Margaux. One sip and even the pros were stunned. Valued at $257
• 1998 Penfolds St Henri Shiraz: "Dense, inky purple hue. Nose of rhubarb, plum, and blueberry. Slightly sweet palate notes with a walnut accent. Tart black cherry flavors and continued big, oaky tannins with good backing acidity." The Wine News. Valued at $167
• 1999 Penfolds St. Henri Shiraz: This wine is a blend of Shiraz and a small proportion of Cabernet Sauvignon to enhance structure. The wine was sourced from premium vineyards across South Australia and aged for 12 months in 50+-year-old oak vats. Valued at $109

Donated by Mike Mondello

Studio Jeffrey P'an Champagne Glassblowing Experience

Valued at $3,600

Work with master glassblower Jeffrey P'an at his Mystic studio to create a unique custom artwork for your home. Jeffrey will work with you to choose colors, patterns, and forms, then create the piece for you while you sip champagne and watch the process unfold before your eyes.

You may include up to 22 people for this magical experience!

Donated by Jeffrey P'an

Image taken by Aaron Flaum

Under the Tuscan Sun

7 nights for four guests

Valued at $5,000

This tried-and-true auction prize is a favorite for our Dinner in the Dark guests!

Situated atop an ancient Tuscan hill, the Etruscan town of Manciano offers breathtaking panoramic views. This package includes 7 nights of accommodations for four people in Manciano, Italy, located 1-1/2 hours north of Rome on the southern edge of Tuscany. You may choose from 13 properties, each with a minimum of 2 bedrooms and 2 baths.

Details: There is no expiration date on this gift, and the winner may postpone travel until any year in the future. Travel for 2026 and beyond. No blackout dates. You only need to reserve for a week that is free at the villa of your choice.

Discover the Best of Costa Rica - Your Choice of Adventure

Valued at $12,000

Experience the beauty and adventure of Costa Rica with a choice of two unforgettable destinations: Guanacaste or La Fortuna.

This package includes:

Guanacaste Villa (7 nights, 6 guests)

• Family-friendly villa with sweeping ocean views
• Private infinity pool
• Mid-week housekeeping and breakfast pastry delivery
• Premium guest services to help plan your trip

or

La Fortuna Luxury Villa (7 nights, 10 guests)

• Spacious villa with private pool and alfresco dining
• Housekeeping services and welcome hamper
• Premium guest services to help plan your trip

Trip Details:

Guanacaste: 2 King beds, 1 Queen, 1 Twin-over-Twin bunk bed. Guanacaste villa accommodates 6 adults + up to 3 children.

La Fortuna villa accommodates 6 adults + 4 children. La Fortuna: 3 King beds, 2 Queen beds.

Disclaimers:

• Winners must confirm reservations within 12 months of purchase; travel may occur within 18 months.
• Trip is Winner's Choice: select either Guanacaste or La Fortuna upon redemption
• Mid-week housekeeping and breakfast pastry delivery takes place on Wednesdays.
• Subject to availability, blackout dates, and Saturday-to-Saturday travel

Create memories that last a lifetime in Costa Rica-your adventure awaits!

Join Master Mixologist, Dale DeGroff, for cocktail hour at The Cafe in Westerly, Rhode Island!

Valued at $1,000 (Time with Dale is priceless!)

World-famous mixologist Dale DeGroff will meet you at The Cafe bar to curate a round of cocktails for a party of up to four. If you enjoy a good drink, a little history, and spending time with a master mixologist, you couldn't ask for better company than Dale.

This package includes:

• Time at The Cafe bar with Dale for a party of up to four. Must be pre-arranged with Dale, subject to availability.
• A signed copy of The New Craft of the Cocktail, by Dale DeGroff.
• A bottle of DeGroff's New World Amaro and DeGroff's Bitter Aperitivo.
• A $200 gift card to The Cafe in Westerly, Rhode Island.

About Dale DeGroff

Dale DeGroff, also known as "the King of Cocktails" or "King Cocktail," is an American bartender and author. The New York Times in 2015 called DeGroff "one of the world's foremost cocktail experts" and wrote that his book The Craft of the Cocktail is considered an essential bartending reference.

About The Cafe

Located in downtown Westerly, The Cafe is a concept born of a family's belief that a community is stronger when it gathers to celebrate, discuss ideas, relax, and enjoy.

Donors: Dale DeGroff, King Cocktail & The Cafe, Westerly

CIAO, MILANO!

7 nights for two guests

Value is PRICELESS!

Stay in beautiful Milan, Italy, in the home of local residents Betty & Chris Manfre, parents of Hope in Focus co-founder Laura Manfre.

In Milan, the capital of fashion, design, and world-class architecture, you will be within walking distance (or a short train or tram ride) to the renowned La Scala theater, the stunning cathedral (il duomo di Milano), and the Galleria, the medieval Sforza castle, and extraordinary shopping and dining.

A beautiful city to visit for a week, Milan is conveniently located in northern Italy, a few hours by train or car to Venice, Verona, Lake Como, the Alps, and more. In just two or three hours on the high-speed train, you can easily reach Florence and Rome.

This package includes:

• 7 nights and 8 days in Milan
• Bedroom with Queen bed
• Private bathroom with tub and shower
• Use of the homeowner's kitchen, living room, and TV room
• Daily Continental breakfast with morning cappuccino or espresso, and two home-cooked dinners
• Travel recommendations and life advice from Nonno Chris (unavoidable)

Details: All dates are subject to the homeowner's availability and must be booked three months in advance. Best availability during the months of February through June, and September to October, with possible availability during the remaining months. Expires June 15, 2027.

Donated by Betty & Chris Manfre

Bid blind & win this gift to enjoy some of our event committee's favorite things.
Valued at $250

Our Dinner in the Dark event committee members have each added something to this mysterious prize.

The criteria we had for this curated gift was that the item be something from your hometown, or something that you really enjoy. Oh, and it also had to be something that we can pop in the mail easily so that anyone anywhere could win this fun gift.

What's in this gift? Win it and find out!

Details: This gift ships for free anywhere in the continental U.S.

Experience Earth, Wind & Fire concert like a VIP!

Valued at $400

Enjoy the iconic band's live concert from a private suite at Mohegan Sun Arena on Sunday, December 7, 2025. Take in the show with exclusive amenities, private access, and premium views, all while supporting Hope in Focus and our mission to advance research and raise awareness for rare inherited retinal diseases.

This package includes:

• Four tickets to the concert
• Access to the Earth Suite, private entrance, suite-level restrooms, spacious seating and accommodations, cash bar.
• And a great time!!!

Boston Red Sox Tickets & Autographed Brayan Bello Ball
Valued at $250

Enjoy an unforgettable Major League Baseball experience with two tickets to a mutually agreed-upon Boston Red Sox game plus an autographed ball from pitcher Brayan Bello!

This exclusive package is a must for any Red Sox fan.

This package includes:

• Two tickets to a mutually agreed upon Red Sox game
• Autographed Brayan Bello baseball included

Details: Excludes Yankees games.

Winner should contact Hope in Focus to to arrage their tickets

Donated by The Boston Red Sox

Cheer on the Boston Bruins live!

Two Loge Seats - Row 3, Section 11

Valued at $500

Experience the game like never before with two premium loge seats directly across from the visiting team's bench and right next to the penalty box for the November 28th matchup vs. the Rangers. Feel the excitement up close and catch every moment of the action on the ice!

Donated by Adam Milne

Bring a Little Bit of RARE into Your Kitchen!

Valued at $130

Zebra stripes aren't just eye-catching - they're a symbol of being rare and unique.

This kitchen basket combines style, function, and a playful nod to the rare community, bringing flair and fun to your home.

This basket includes:

• Ceramic zebra salt and pepper shakers
• Handmade pottery herb and dressing bowl
• Hand-carved wooden zebra salad tongs
• Zebra knitted pot holder
• Black wooden cheese board
• Fairy lights and everlasting plants
• Grey woven basket

Overnight Stay for Two - The Spa at Norwich Inn

Valued at $325

Enjoy a rejuvenating getaway at the award-winning Spa at Norwich Inn. Nestled in a serene setting, this historic destination resort offers luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and world-class spa experiences designed to restore your body and mind.

As they say, "You may come in pieces, but you will leave whole."

Details:

• Overnight stay for two
• Valid Sunday-Thursday
• Expires May 31, 2026

Donated by The Spa at Norwich Inn

Jeffrey P'an Glass Pumpkin Collection

Valued at $600
Bring vibrant fall colors into your home with these hand-blown glass pumpkins! Each piece is crafted by master glassblower Jeffrey P'an, making them a unique and stunning addition to your seasonal decor. Perfect for a centerpiece, mantel, or festive display.

Donated by Jeffrey P'an

Lake of Isles Golf Experience

Valued at $550

Enjoy an unforgettable day at the stunning Lake of Isles, nestled in scenic southeastern Connecticut next to Foxwoods Resort Casino. Since opening in 2005, Lake of Isles has earned its place among the top golf facilities in the country.

This exclusive package includes a round of golf for four on the renowned North Course at Lake of Isles.

Details: Valid Monday through Thursday only. Expires December 31, 2026.

Donated by Lake of Isles

https://www.lakeofisles.com/

Butterfly Photo Collage by Dante Priebe
Valued at $60

Celebrate the beauty of nature through the lens of local photographer Dante Priebe. This stunning collage captures three butterflies photographed locally in Ledyard, Connecticut, highlighting the delicate details and vibrant colors of these remarkable arthropods.

This gift includes:

• Three butterfly images (4x6)
• Black wood collage frame with matte display (7x14)

Donated by Dante Priebe

Instagram: AnisopteraPhotography

Dragonfly Photograph by Dante Priebe

Valued at $100

From his exquisite arthropod collection, local photographer Dante Priebe captures the intricate elegance of a dragonfly in striking detail. Photographed in Ledyard, Connecticut, this large-scale image brings the wonder of nature into your home or office.

This gift includes:

• One large-scale dragonfly photograph (20x30)
• American Flat poster frame with polished plexiglass

Donated by Dante Priebe

Instagram: AnisopteraPhotography

Yetter Road Tree Farm Basket

Valued at $400

Bring music, warmth, and comfort into your home with this thoughtfully curated basket! Perfect for relaxing nights, it includes a record player, cozy blankets, and other stylish accessories to set the perfect mood.

This basket includes:

• The Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler | 40 OZ
• Taylor Swift "Life of a Showgirl" Vinyl Record
• Wood-finish Vinyl Record Player
• Three (3) Custom Yetter Road Tree Farm Candles (100% Soy)
• Cozy fireside blanket

Donated by Yetter Road Tree Farm

Under the Tuscan Sun

7 nights for four guests

Valued at $5,000

This tried-and-true auction prize is a favorite for our Dinner in the Dark guests!

Situated atop an ancient Tuscan hill, the Etruscan town of Manciano offers breathtaking panoramic views. This package includes 7 nights of accommodations for four people in Manciano, Italy, located 1-1/2 hours north of Rome on the southern edge of Tuscany. You may choose from 13 properties, each with a minimum of 2 bedrooms and 2 baths.

Details: There is no expiration date on this gift, and the winner may postpone travel until any year in the future. Travel for 2026 and beyond. No blackout dates. You only need to reserve for a week that is free at the villa of your choice.

$100 Monetary Donation

$250 Monetary Donation

$500 Monetary Donation

$1,000 Monetary Donation

$2,500 Monetary Donation

$5,000 Monetary Donation

$10,000 Monetary Donation